What started as a casual conversation over a Titos and Soda about UGA football with Jason Ganz has grown into something much bigger.

In this special 200th episode of Sports ’N Torts, host Joshua Stein sits down with longtime friend and loyal listener Allen McDuffie to reflect on the journey from Episode 1 to Episode 200. What began as a simple experiment—five episodes with five friends—has evolved into a platform for thoughtful conversations with lawyers, athletes, entrepreneurs, coaches, and business leaders. The two are joined by Michael Thompson.

The group looks back at the moments, relationships, and lessons that have shaped the podcast over nearly five years. They discuss the unexpected impact the show has had on Josh’s legal practice, his leadership philosophy, and the way he approaches conversations both in and out of the courtroom.

Along the way, they revisit memorable guests, the friendships built through the podcast, and the core principles that have emerged from 200 conversations about sports, law, business, and life.

Episode 200 is less about celebrating a number and more about reflecting on the power of curiosity, consistency, and meaningful conversation.

Whether you’ve been listening since the early days or you’re discovering the show for the first time, this episode offers a window into what makes Sports ’N Torts unique.

Show Notes

A Milestone Episode

Josh opens the show by reflecting on how the podcast began—sitting at his kitchen table with a friend, talking about sports with no expectations that anyone would listen. Nearly five years later, the show has reached 200 episodes, a testament to consistency, curiosity, and community.

Longtime friend, mediator, and loyal listener Allen McDuffie joins as co-host for the conversation, bringing the perspective of someone who has followed the podcast closely for years. Michael Thompson joins as well.

How It All Started

• The original idea behind Sports ’N Torts
• Recording Episode 1 with Jason Ganz and talking UGA football
• The “five episode test” that started it all
• Why the show continued beyond those first few recordings

The Unexpected Impact of the Podcast

Josh reflects on something he didn’t anticipate when he started the show:

Podcasting made him a better listener and communicator.

Through hundreds of conversations with lawyers, athletes, doctors, and business leaders, he developed skills that translate directly to his work as a trial lawyer, including:

• Listening closely
• Asking better follow-up questions
• Becoming more comfortable in conversations
• Staying calm and confident in high-pressure environments like courtrooms and depositions

The Relationship Dividend

One of the biggest takeaways from the show has been the relationships built along the way.

Josh and Allen discuss:

• Guests who became real friends after appearing on the show
• Conversations that deepened professional relationships
• The unique ability of podcasting to create authentic connections

The show has also expanded Josh’s professional network and reputation, with many people in the legal community now associating him with the podcast and the conversations it sparks.

Moments That Made the Show Special

Throughout the episode, they reflect on some of the types of guests and conversations that stood out over the years, including:

• Professional athletes and coaches
• Business leaders and entrepreneurs
• Fellow lawyers sharing their stories and strategies
• Friends and colleagues reflecting on shared experiences

Some episodes captured major moments in sports, while others became personal time cap